You Have the Power (YHTP), along with two of its past and current Board members, has been nominated for recognition during this year’s “Meet Us at the Bridge” domestic violence memorial ceremony.
The agency itself was nominated for Outstanding Long Term Service Provider, with Past President Patsy Bruce nominated for Outstanding Advocate and Deputy Chief John Drake of the Metro Nashville Police Department nominated for Outstanding Local Government Official.
Aside from her involvement with YHTP, Ms. Bruce is a past member of the Tennessee State Board of Probation and Parole and the Arts at the Airport Foundation. She owns and operates Events Unlimited, a nationally renowned entertainment and event management company, in addition to SongBird Tours. Finally, Ms. Bruce is an accomplished songwriter, having co-written the country music classic “Mama, Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys,” among others.
Officer Drake, a 30-year MPND veteran, is the former Commander of the Central Precinct, as well as the past head of MNPD’s domestic violence division and Hermitage Precinct investigation. While working full time for the MNPD, Officer Drake received his Bachelor’s Degree from Bethel University and co-chaired the Leadership Nashville Class of 2018.
“Meet Us at the Bridge” is held every year during Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, sponsored by the Nashville Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV). During the ceremony, NCADV recognizes the victims in the last year who have lost their lives to domestic violence with a reading of names and commentary by their loved ones. The event also honors people in the Nashville community who give of their time and talents to combat domestic violence in our homes.
NCADV will announce this year’s winners during the ceremony, scheduled for 10 AM on Saturday, October 5, on the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge.